GBOP's Bear Smart Program

More about Bears and Bear Smart

Remember: until humans entered the scene, bears were able to thrive as very successful as species - partly because they are 'opportunistic omnivores'. This means they are able to locate many different food types over large areas in different seasons. The problem is that this also leads them to human food when it is not stored properly - both in the front country around human property and campgrounds, and also in the backcountry when people don't hang their food and garbage appropriately out of the reach of inquisitive bears. Once a bear becomes human food-conditioned it is a tough habit to break. Like a dog begging at the dinner table - one treat and it will be back for more. Human food is not only delicious, but high in calories, and bears learn that quickly. Unfortunately, this usually leads to a bear becoming more inclined to come into areas where there are humans, where they often end up being killed. Bear Smart behavior prevents problems for both humans and bears.

GBOP's 'Bear Smart' program was inspired by similar programs that have evolved in British Columbia. Our thanks to those who put in the ground work in communities that have adopted Bear Smart practices. In particular, thank you to Helen Davis, Debbie Wellwood, Lana Ciarniello, Matt Austin, and the BC Ministry of Water, Land and Air Protection. A special thank you also to Defenders of Wildlife for providing a grant for the development of Bear Smart materials.

If you need to report an incident:

Please notify your local State Patrol Office or the nearest ranger station.

Please report all grizzly bear observations and field sign to:

1-888-WOLF-BEAR

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Our sincere thanks to Matthew Felton, John Hechtel, Kerry Lagueux, Wayne Lynch, Chris Morgan, John Serrao, & Chris Weston, for kindly donating their images and to Chris Smith for generously hosting this site.

Thank you to our contributors:

US Fish and Wildlife Service |  Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife | Seattle City Light | Secure Rural Schools and Community Self Determination Act | Conservation Northwest | Woodland Park Zoo, Seattle | USDA Forest Service | Defenders of Wildlife | Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee | REI | National Park Service | WILDTIME Foods Grizzlies Brand | Grizzly Industrial | Canopy | Counter Assault | Living with Wildlife Foundation | Sanitary Service Company | Foothills Gazette |   Links to these sponsors.